Deliciously Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Air Fried Salmon Recipe
Perfect for weeknights or even special occasions, this Lemon Butter Garlic Salmon recipe is a great option when you want something quick and nutritious. The simple blend of lemon, garlic, butter, and a touch of parsley makes for a delicious lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Deliciously Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Air Fried Salmon Recipe
Why I Love This Recipe:
This Salmon with Lemon Garlic Butter is not only a crowd-pleaser- it's also so easy to make! Out-of-the-norm salmon flavor variations are not always the most popular, but butter and garlic go so well with seafood, especially salmon.
The recipe only requires four ingredients, all of which are usually already in everyone's kitchen! I love the melted butter as it soaks into the salmon; it makes it so juicy and flavorful. The garlic is easy to substitute for garlic powder if you don’t have fresh on hand or just don't feel like chopping.
The lemon flavor gives it a pop of citrus that is just deliciously perfect. Top with any fresh herbs, and it’s so bright. I also love serving this with anything; it is so versatile. Think pasta, rice, roasted veggies, on a salad… the opportunities are endless!
Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon Ingredients
2 salmon filets
2 tbsp butter, melted
2 cloves of garlic, or 1 tsp
Garlic powder
2 tsp lemon zest
1 lemon, juiced
1/4 tsp salt
Parsley (optional to finish)
How to Make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, lemon zest, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture will serve as your flavorful lemon garlic butter sauce.
Pat the salmon dry using a paper towel to ensure they soak up the marinade effectively. Gently pour the prepared lemon garlic butter sauce over each salmon fillet, ensuring they're well coated.
For an additional layer of flavor, dollop a spoonful of pesto on top of each salmon fillet. This adds a nice little herby twist to the dish.
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Once ready, place the salmon fillets inside and let them cook for about 10 minutes. The salmon should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 145°F for the perfect flakiness.
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the air fryer and place them on serving plates. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips & Tricks
Lightly melt the butter before adding it to your mixture. This ensures a smoother sauce or marinade to lavish over your salmon.
If you are using fresh garlic, use a microplane for a fine grate. In a pinch? Swap fresh garlic for garlic powder.
Using the same microplane, zest the lemon—focus on the vibrant outer layer and avoid the white rind to prevent bitterness. Adjust the lemon juice and zest quantity to your taste preference.
Customize with your choice of seasonings: paprika, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, or even Italian seasoning. A final touch of flaky sea salt and fresh herbs can amplify the flavors.
Adjust cooking times based on the salmon filet size. Larger filets need more time. Aim for an internal temperature of 145F for perfectly cooked salmon.
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent the salmon from sticking.
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your cooked salmon, storing it in an airtight container is recommended. This will help prevent it from absorbing any other odors or flavors from your refrigerator. When stored properly, you can enjoy the salmon for up to 24 hours post-cooking.
FAQ
What ingredients are needed to make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
You just need salmon, butter, garlic, lemon, and salt to make Lemon Garlic Butter Air Fried Salmon. I recommend topping the dish off with parsley for a touch of presentation and color.
How long does it take to cook Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
The lemon garlic butter salmon only takes about 10 minutes to cook. It's super quick and easy! The prep time is only 5 minutes so that you can have a delicious and nutritious meal on the table in no time.
What vegetables can be served with Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
Roasted asparagus, grilled zucchini, steamed broccoli, and sautéed spinach are just a few ways you can incorporate your greens into this recipe. Additionally, consider trying roasted Brussels sprouts, buttered green beans, or a light cucumber salad to elevate your meal further. These veggies not only complement the rich flavors of the salmon but also provide a balanced and satisfying plate.
Do you use an oven to make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon?
No oven or sheet pan is required to make Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon. In this recipe, we actually use an air fryer to cook the salmon; it's not baked! The air fryer cooks the salmon quickly and evenly, giving it a delicious crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and softened.
What herbs are used to season lemon garlic butter salmon?
I use parsley in this recipe to be used as a finishing herb. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can also add some other herbs to enhance the flavors. Some popular options include dill, thyme, or even a sprinkle of dried basil.
How do you store leftover lemon garlic butter salmon?
To store leftovers, let the salmon cool completely first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in a piece of foil. Place it in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for up to 24 hours.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, you have a few options. You can reheat it in the oven by preheating it to 350F, placing the salmon in the oiled air fryer, and then bake for about 5 minutes. You can also eat salmon cold and use it as a topping for a freshly chopped green salad or even in a sandwich or wrap.
Lemon Garlic Butter Air Fried Salmon
Ingredients
- 2 salmon filets
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves of garlic, or 1 tsp
- garlic powder
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Parsley (optional to finish)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the salmon, butter, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice and salt. Mix to combine.
- Pat the salmon dry, then pour the lemon garlic butter sauce on top of the salmon filets.
- Add a spoonful of pesto on top for an added pop of flavor!
- Air fry at 390F for 10 minutes until salmon internal temperature is 145F.
